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Is Excess Ear Hair Affecting the Performance of Your Hearing Aids?

by | 10/02/2024 | Hearing Aids

As we age, changes in our hair growth patterns often become more noticeable, with some people experiencing a reduction of hair in areas like the scalp while others develop more hair in places like the ears. Although not often discussed, excess ear hair can have a surprising impact on hearing aid performance, particularly for those who use in-ear devices. 

It’s essential to address this issue head-on to ensure you get the best performance from your hearing aids. Let’s explore how excess ear hair affects hearing aids and what you can do to manage it effectively. 

What Role Does Ear Hair Play? 

Your ear contains two types of hair: 

Vellus hairs:

Thin, soft hairs often referred to as “peach fuzz.” These are usually light in color and grow on the outer ear. 

Tragi hairs:

Thicker, coarser hairs that grow near the outer ear canal. They act as a barrier, keeping dust, debris, and insects from entering the ear. 
While ear hair serves a protective purpose, excessive hair, particularly tragi hairs, can interfere with hearing aid performance in several ways. 

How Excess Ear Hair Affects Hearing Aids 

If you’re using hearing aids and have noticed discomfort or reduced performance, excess ear hair could be part of the problem. Here are four key ways ear hair can impact hearing aids: 

1. Distorted Ear Impressions for Custom Earmolds

When getting custom hearing aids, your audiologist needs to take a precise ear impression. Excess ear hair can distort the impression, making it harder to create a snug-fitting earmold. Trimming the hair before getting an impression ensures a better fit. 

2. Poor Fit and Comfort

Thick ear hair can push against in-ear hearing aids, causing them to feel loose or unstable. This not only affects comfort but can also make you feel like your hearing aids are going to fall out, prompting constant adjustments. 

3. Acoustic Seal Issues

A proper acoustic seal is essential for hearing aids to perform optimally. Excess hair in the ear canal can prevent this seal, leading to sound leakage and reduced hearing aid efficiency, especially when using in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. 

4. Increased Earwax Buildup

Ear hair can trap earwax in the ear canal, leading to buildup. This buildup not only affects hearing aid performance by blocking sound but can also damage the device if not addressed promptly. Proper ear hair management can help minimize earwax accumulation. 

How to Manage Excess Ear Hair 

If you’re concerned that ear hair might be interfering with your hearing aids, there are a few ways to manage it: 

Use Ear/Nose Hair Trimmers:

Invest in trimmers specifically designed for ear hair. These are safe and effective for regular maintenance. Avoid using scissors or nail clippers, as these can be dangerous and lead to injury. 

Seek Professional Help:

If trimming ear hair is difficult, consider seeing a professional. A trained aesthetician or barber can help trim ear hair safely and efficiently. 

Consider Laser Hair Removal:

For those struggling with constant ear hair growth, laser hair removal offers a more permanent solution. Performed by licensed professionals, it’s a safe and painless option that could be worth considering. 

Maximize Your Hearing Aid Performance 

Hearing aids are a significant investment in your quality of life.

If you’re not experiencing optimal performance from your devices, something as simple as excess ear hair could be the culprit.

Our team is here to help you troubleshoot any issues, whether they stem from ear hair, earwax, or other factors. 

Need assistance with your hearing aids or hearing health?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll ensure you get the most out of your hearing aids so you never miss a moment. 

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Leah Guempel, Au.D., CCC-A

Dr. Leah Guempel received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders in 2007 and her doctorate from the University of Texas in 2010. While in graduate school, Dr. Guempel was named outstanding first year graduate student in Audiology and Sertoma outstanding graduate student in Audiology. During graduate school, Dr. Guempel had several clinical rotations she completed throughout Austin including rotations at Dell Children’s Hospital and an ENT practice. Dr. Guempel also had a rotation at Cook Hearing & Balance as a student clinician, and after completing her 4th year rotation there, worked as a Doctor of Audiology in the Austin and Cedar Park locations. Dr. Guempel became the audiologist at the Cook Hearing & Balance office in San Marcos when it opened September of 2011. In December of 2012, Dr. Guempel bought Cook Hearing & Balance in San Marcos and renamed it Central Texas Hearing Center. She then opened the Central Texas Hearing Center in Lakeway, Texas. Dr. Guempel is licensed to practice Audiology in the State of Texas. She is a Fellow of the American Academy (AAA) and holds a certificate of clinical competence in Audiology from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). Dr. Guempel has a passion for hearing awareness. She enjoys her field of practice and hopes to inform and educate the community about the importance of early detection and the use of hearing protection. She is dedicated to helping those who suffer from hearing impairment. In her free time, Dr. Guempel enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and anything outdoors.

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